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Do-it-yourself fundraising ideas for individuals

When you host a “do it yourself,” aka DIY, fundraising event you have the opportunity to develop new skills, explore your creativity and build out your network while supporting the causes most important to you, like St. Jude. Check out our list of easy fundraising ideas for individuals to get started. 

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dozens of people participating in outdoor yoga session

Artwork by St. Jude patient Ethan

 
 

5 fundraiser ideas for individuals 

 

1. Social media challenges 

Social media challenges are a cost-effective and easy way for individuals to start their fundraising journeys. All you need to do is select your challenge and social media platform, launch the fundraiser and start advertising! For more information check out our articles on social media fundraising or Facebook Challenges.

2. Themed raffles 

Themed raffles are another simple way to raise money for important causes. Use your creativity to assemble prize baskets around themes like holidays, movie releases, sporting events and more. Advertise your raffles online, at local businesses and on community bulletin boards to spread the word and increase engagement.

3. Craft sales  

For those who are more creatively inclined, consider creating pieces of art, sewing clothing or making jewelry, then hosting a craft sale to benefit your chosen cause. This could be either a one-day event or you could stretch it out over several weeks. You might even consider establishing an online shop. 

4. Charity concerts or streaming sessions 

If you are someone who enjoys singing, playing an instrument or playing video games, a charity concert or streaming session might be perfect for you! Entertain friends, family and your community at large with your performance while raising money for important causes.

5. Share your skills

Are you someone who enjoys cooking or baking? What about crafting? Share your skill set with your community in the form of classes. Participants can make a small donation to your chosen cause in exchange for access to your class. Consider recording the class and making it accessible to those online for further reach. 

 
 

Interested in learning more about how to fundraise? 

See Our Fundraising Guide

 
 
St. Jude patient Aria

St. Jude patient Aria

 

When you fundraise, you support kids like Aria

In early 2024, at 2 years old, Aria seemed to have a rash. She also had so much bruising that her mom took her to the pediatrician to check for anemia. Bloodwork led to a shocking diagnosis the same day: acute myeloid leukemia.

She was referred to St. Jude right away. “We were really nervous when we learned we had to move six-and-a-half hours from our home with no job, no income,” said her mom. But they soon found out “how much St. Jude supports the families. Anything we needed here, they made sure we got.” Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food.

At St. Jude, Aria began receiving chemotherapy and quickly achieved remission. She has now returned home to Oklahoma.

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Help St. Jude cure childhood cancer 

Because of your support, we can provide children cutting-edge treatments not covered by insurance, at no cost to families. Unlike other hospitals, the majority of funding for St. Jude comes from generous donors. Join us and be part of our lifesaving mission: Finding cures. Saving children.®

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St. Jude patient Quincy with a photo of himself in treatment.

St. Jude patient Quincy

 
 

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